In March, the announcement of the $1.3 trillion FY18 Omnibus Appropriations bill outlined funding for the remainder of fiscal year through Sept. 30, 2018. The FTA was funded at $13.5 billion, $1B above 2017 enacted levels. In addition, funding for Bus and Bus Facilities was increased by $400 million in FY 2018. Transit formula grants came in at the recommended FAST levels with $834 million in additional transit infrastructure spending including $400M for Section 5339 bus and bus facility funding.
So what is the impact for MO transit providers?
5339 Bus and Bus Facilities Program FY18 allocations
- Small Urban – $924,142 (36% increase over FY17)
- Statewide allocation – $3,500,000 (100% increase over FY17)
The increase in federal funding provides critical funding to replace transit fleets in rural Missouri. A significant share of the rural transit fleet in Missouri is operating beyond the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) recommended minimum useful life standards. Replacement of these vehicles will support the economic opportunities by providing access to employment centers, educational and training opportunities, and other basic needs.
FY17 allocations:
- Small Urban – $677,391 (allocated to small urban via formula)
- Statewide allocation – $1,750,000 (allocations to large urban, small urban, and rural providers)